Most of the girls have never really played in organized basketball, so it was no surprise that Coach Frankie De Guzman had her hands full. She developed a 14-step core program that concentrated on speed, strength, endurance and agility training which actually assisted the young team to be able to run the required 8 minute period non-stop.

Throughout the summer, fall and winter training, their primary mission was to develop their running, ball handling and team working skills in order to play as a team.

Right before the season, their new uniforms were stolen including their game gear bags and basketballs. Their spirit was crushed and they began to practice as a defeated team. Coach De Guzman, being prior military, shared some of her experiences over seas and told them stories of children in other countries that made soccer balls out of 2 gallon milk cartons and baseballs out of paper, sand and lots and lots of tape. She explained to them that a uniform, maybe a symbol of pride, but not necessary in order to play like champions. The team had to play this season in their reversible practice uniforms.

Captain Imani Thomas and her creative leadership skills helped the team’s spirit, pride and self-worth back to the court. Throughout the season, the Lady Gladiators experienced team losses due to injuries to several key players but they continued forward which helped them become a true team on and off the court.

For ticket information, contact Sparks Senior Account Executive Joe Bucz at (213) 929-1322 or jbucz@la-sparks.com

1st Team of the Week: Gahr High School Lady Gladiators

2nd Team of the Week: Community Charter Early College High School Lady Titans

3rd Team of the Week: Millikan High School Lady Rams

4th Team of the Week: Bishop Montgomery High School Girl’s Varsity Basketball Team